10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Florida Recommended by Floridians

Kali

beautiful beaches

Everyone’s familiar with Florida’s treasure trove of beautiful beaches tourists love visiting yearly. While the landscape and local economy constantly change, here’s a list of must-see beaches to visit on your next trip to Florida.

1. “30A” Between Destin and Panama City

30A a stretch of beach between Destin and Panama City
credit: depositphotos

If you’re unfamiliar, Floridians refer to the scenic highway stretch between Destin and Panama City as the “30A”. This area used to be considered a hidden gem but has since experienced a significant influx of new visitors. Understandably, people come from all over to admire the splendor of Florida’s “Emerald Coast,” consisting of a collection of quaint little towns nestled next to some of the most attractive beaches you’ll ever see.

2. Siesta Key

credit: depositphotos

Though the name may be misleading, Siesta Key is not a part of the famous Florida Keys south of the state’s tip. Representing the very definition of a white sandy beach, it’s an eight-mile-long island that sits next to Sarasota, featuring soft, teal-colored waves and a wide array of oyster bars and seafood restaurants for adventurous foodies. 

3. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria island
Credit: Depositphotos

Known for its laid-back vibes, this colorful paradise spanning a short 20-minute drive from one side of the island to the other makes getting around easy. The most common modes of local transportation are golf carts and bikes. Picture yourself digging your feet into the velvety sand, taking in the warm sunset glow, all while sipping on a cocktail from The Sandbar Restaurant. Even breakfast becomes a big deal when you head to Ginny’s & Jane E’s for some delicious biscuits and gravy.

4. Marco Island

Marco Island
credit: depositphotos

Only about 20 miles away from Naples, Marco Island is home to the beautiful Tigertail Beach, where visitors can search for seashells, participate in watersports, or observe wildlife. If the high-luxury lifestyle is more up your alley, you can head to South Marco Beach, teeming with skyrise resorts that are perfect locations for people-watching and sunbathing in peace.

5. Amelia Island

Amelia Island
credit: depositphotos

Touted as a serenely uncrowded beach escape on the northeast coast of Florida, the cooler temperatures tend to have the benefit of diverting the crowds of seasonal tourists (a.k.a. “snowbirds”) further south, thus leaving places like Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach to its seclusion. This underrated beach land is a literal treasure made from natural Appalachian quartz sand. You can check out Amelia Island’s diverse geological features, such as its dunes, salt marshes, and temperate beaches, at the stunning 200-acre Amelia Island State Park.

6. St. George Island

St. George Island
credit: depositphotos

Being part of Florida’s Forgotten Coast won’t prevent visitors from having a memorable time exploring this relatively untouched piece of utopia. At Saint George Island State Park, there are various options for fun activities depending on personal interests. The gulf side has pristine white-sand beaches while the bay side has nature trails, marshes, and forest land, which houses many wildlife animals including fish and shorebirds. After spending a full day soaking up some sun, check out some fantastic dining options like Paddy’s Raw Bar for their oysters or satiate your sweet tooth with a trip to Aunt Ebby’s Ice Cream.

7. St. Augustine

St. Augustine
credit: depositphotos

This lively area showcases some vibrant history, and its natural beauty has melded into a thriving destination that brings people back repeatedly. Even after multiple visits, tourists keep returning for delicious surf and turf at the iconic A1A Steakhouse, the spooky ghost tours, and the crystalline waters along St. Augustine’s gorgeous coastline. One of the less-frequented areas is called the Point of Rocks, just a short walk south on the shores of Crescent Beach.

8. Cocoa Beach

credit: depositphotos

Located near the Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa Beach is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and catching larger waves for surfing because it is on Florida’s Atlantic side. If beach time isn’t the only thing you’re looking for, a casual stroll along Cocoa Beach Pier for shopping and dining might tickle your fancy. You’ll even get the opportunity to meet Sweetie, the local celebrity alligator if you decide to stop by the Florida Key Lime Pie Company for a bite of their sensational classic key lime pie.

9. Venice Beach

Venice Beach
credit: depositphotos

While Hurricane Ian significantly impacted the Gulf Coast, Venice Beach was lucky enough to evade its wrath and held up fairly well in the storm’s aftermath. Having 14 miles of unspoiled beaches, people can comb the soft sand for seashells and shark teeth. Don’t worry. These prehistorically dated teeth have long been detached from their owners. Spending the day tanning or wading in shallow, warm waters is an idyllic activity that anyone can enjoy. 

10. Key Largo

Key Largo
credit: depositphotos

Famously referenced in The Beach Boys’ song “Kokomo,” the Florida Keys rank among one of the top places to explore in Florida. With so many to choose from, Key Largo represents the best that the Keys offers. Rated as the top beach area in Key Largo, people can enjoy watersports like deep sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

15 Best Beaches in the USA – Must-visit Spots for Sun, Sand and Sea

‎Cocoa beach, FL
credit: depositphotos

The United States boasts breathtaking coastal destinations, each offering its unique charm. San Diego and Miami, for instance, showcase pristine shorelines and vibrant beach scenes. From catching waves and beach volleyball to basking under the sun's warmth and taking refreshing dips, there's something for everyone. It's not uncommon to encounter sea turtles along these shores. 

15 Best Beaches in the USA – Must-visit Spots for Sun, Sand and Sea

The World’s Top 13 Most Beautiful Beaches Will Blow Your Mind

credit: depositphotos

Welcome to a world of sun-kissed perfection, where pristine shores and azure waters beckon you to indulge in pure bliss. This fascinating guide will include some of the world's most stunning beaches. Envision yourself relaxing on a beach where the sand is soft and powdery, and the waves gently caress away your cares. 

The World’s Top 13 Most Beautiful Beaches Will Blow Your Mind

The 10 Most Incredible Islands to Visit Around the World

credit: depositphotos

Are you dreaming of an island getaway? Imagine spending your days swimming in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on white-sand beaches, and exploring lush rainforests. Sounds too good to be true? Yes, it is! In this article, we will dive into the 10 most incredible islands to visit worldwide. These notable islands are all waiting for you to explore.

The 10 Most Incredible Islands to Visit Around the World

11 Most Dangerous Beaches To Go to in the US

credit: depositphotos

“The beach is a place where life and death can be separated by only a few feet.”The beautiful coastline of the United States is visited by many people every year. There are countless beautiful beaches to explore, from the sunny shores of Florida to the rugged coastlines of California. However, not all beaches are seemingly equal when it comes to safety. Some are known for their treacherous conditions, dangerous wildlife, or hidden hazards. 

11 Most Dangerous Beaches To Go to in the US

The 14 Most Beautiful Beaches in Portugal To Take a Trip to

Most beautiful Beaches in Portugal

Portugal is a paradise for anyone who loves the beach, offering various choices from its mainland to the Azores and Madeira. Whether you're into sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, or jaw-dropping scenery, Portugal has something for everyone. This article will cover some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.

The 14 Most Beautiful Beaches in Portugal To Take a Trip to

Leave a Comment